Staying in shape and recovering from an injury or an illness is always difficult. However, it can often be more challenging for seniors. In addition to the illness or injury, they could also have other issues, such as joint problems due to their age, chronic pain, and more. Keeping healthy and recovering is essential. This is true whether they require physical therapy because of a fall, which is common, or because of some other type of injury. Physical therapy can help seniors in a range of ways.
Reduce the Risk of Falls
Falls are the leading cause of injury in seniors. The falls can lead to fractures, as well as tears in the skin, which could become infected, which could be life-threatening. The physical therapists use various types of exercises, depending on the senior’s current capabilities. They work to improve flexibility, as well as strength and correct gait. This helps to reduce the risk of falls happening in the future.
Reduce Risk of Infection
As mentioned, falling can create a risk of infection. However, this is not the only way that infections can start. Often, seniors do not have enough mobility. They aren’t active, which means they are at a greater risk of developing skin ulcers and bedsores because they are not moving. By engaging in physical therapy, it increases the amount of movement the senior is getting. It also allows therapists to see if there may be other issues that the senior is having, which can alert medical professionals to problems sooner.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Physical therapy also helps to provide seniors with the exercise they need to maintain a healthier lifestyle overall. The strength and stability gained through physical therapy will allow the seniors to continue to do more things for themselves. It enables them to care for themselves better without needing to rely on someone else to handle daily tasks that they used to do.
Provides a Goal
Another benefit that many don’t think about with physical therapy is that it gives the seniors goals. They start to see that they are getting stronger and doing better, and they strive to keep improving. This is good for their physical health, as well as their mental health. It’s also nice for seniors to have some time to talk with the trainers and therapists during the sessions. Many seniors don’t get out and talk as much as they once did so; the therapy can be a welcome part of the day.
To learn more about Assisted or the services we offer, call 800-949-6555 or visit us at www.AssistedCares.com.
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